Access Legal’s recent webinar shed light on the increasing concerns of law firms when it comes to selecting a legal technology provider. Cyber and data security have become a top priority for firms, prompting them to carefully evaluate potential IT providers. The webinar featured insights from industry experts such as James Hood from LCF Law, Kirsty Stridfeldt, Chris Morris, and Jon Cuthbert from Access Managed Services.

When it comes to choosing a legal IT provider, Kirsty Stridfeldt recommended that firms prioritize cloud services aligned with their specific needs. It is crucial for IT providers to safeguard assets, encrypt data, and offer proactive monitoring of network security. Additionally, firms should look for providers with tier-three SOC engineers who are proactive in identifying and addressing threats. Beyond technical capabilities, firms should also consider the provider’s industry expertise, customer testimonials, and 24/7 support to match operational hours.

Chris Morris highlighted the shared responsibility for cybersecurity incidents, emphasizing the need for firms to invest in training and security awareness campaigns for employees. Implementing tools such as intrusion detection, web security solutions, and disaster recovery plans are essential components of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. It is also crucial for IT providers to offer internal training and collaborate effectively with cyber insurers in the event of a breach.

Jon Cuthbert stressed the importance of having a cyber-incident response strategy in place, noting that a significant percentage of businesses lack such a plan. He outlined key aspects of a response strategy, including defining the purpose and scope, identifying threat scenarios, designating key personnel, and involving the IT provider in the strategy. Having a clear response plan and communication channels can help organizations effectively address security incidents.

In terms of detecting potential cyber threats, leveraging tools such as Security Information Event Management (SIEM) systems and Microsoft 365 suite can help correlate data and identify suspicious activities. Proactively assessing the security landscape and implementing Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solutions are increasingly critical for law firms to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Achieving Cyber Essentials certification can provide reassurance to stakeholders, insurers, and clients that a firm takes cybersecurity seriously. James Hood highlighted the importance of Cyber Essentials in demonstrating a firm’s commitment to security, with Kirsty Stridfeldt noting the benefits of moving towards Cyber Essentials Plus for a more audited approach. Addressing cybersecurity issues identified through the certification process can help firms strengthen their overall security posture.

Overall, the key takeaway from the webinar was the importance of selecting an IT provider that aligns with a firm’s specific needs and priorities. Building a partnership with an IT provider that prioritizes cybersecurity, offers industry expertise, and collaborates effectively on response strategies is crucial in today’s digital landscape. By investing in training, awareness campaigns, and proactive cybersecurity measures, law firms can foster a culture of vigilance and readiness for potential cyber threats.

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